Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)

Enjoy British royalty’s official English scones recipe—adapted from Buckingham Palace—because your tea time deserves the very best. This recipe bakes a batch of tender scones, perfect for sharing with clotted cream and good strawberry jam. Experience the joy of making Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe), ideal for brunch, afternoon tea, or any special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Royal Heritage: This recipe is adapted from Buckingham Palace, bringing a taste of royalty to your kitchen.
• Perfect Texture: The careful preparation yields tender and flaky scones that melt in your mouth.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Serve these scones at brunch, tea parties, or as a delightful snack at any time.
• Simple Ingredients: Most ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up a batch anytime.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add sultanas or golden raisins for an extra touch of sweetness.

Tools and Preparation

To make Traditional English Scones effectively, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your process and enhance your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Biscuit cutter
• Rolling pin
• Pastry brush
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly and ensuring proper texture.
• Biscuit cutter: Helps achieve uniform shapes for even baking and a professional look.
• Rolling pin: Ensures a smooth and even dough thickness, crucial for achieving the perfect scone.

Ingredients

For this delightful recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (500g)
• 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon baking powder (24g)
• Pinch of salt
• 7 tablespoons cold, unsalted butter, cut into small pieces (94g)
• 1/2 cup sugar (86g)
• 3 eggs, divided
• 3/4 cup buttermilk, less 1 tablespoon (175ml)
• 2/3 cup sultanas or golden raisins, optional (100g)

How to Make Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)

Step 1: Soak the Raisins (Optional)

If using raisins or sultanas:
1. Soak them in hot water for 20 to 30 minutes.
2. Drain before adding to the recipe.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Mix the flour, baking powder, pinch of salt, and sugar together.
2. Add the butter. Work it into the dry ingredients with your hands until crumbly.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate small bowl:
1. Whisk two eggs and the buttermilk together.
2. Stir this mixture into the butter-flour combination.
3. If using raisins, add them now and mix until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Gently knead the dough by hand until smooth:
1. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your scones tender.

Step 5: Rest the Dough

On a clean countertop dusted with flour:
1. Flatten the dough to about 1 inch thick.
2. Cover it and chill in the refrigerator for 30 to 45 minutes.

Step 6: Cut Out Scones

Remove the dough from refrigeration:
1. Use a round biscuit cutter to cut out your desired shapes.
2. Place them on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C):
1. Whisk the third egg and egg wash the tops of each scone with a pastry brush.

Step 8: Bake

Bake on sheets for around 12 to 15 minutes:
1. Look for light golden brown tops before removing from oven.
2. Let cool on a wire rack before serving with jam and clotted cream.

Enjoy these exquisite Traditional English Scones as part of your next gathering!

How to Serve Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)

Serving your freshly baked Traditional English scones is an art that enhances the whole tea experience. You can pair them with a variety of toppings and sides to elevate their flavor and texture.

Classic Pairings

• Clotted Cream: This rich, thick cream adds a luxurious texture that complements the scone’s crumb.
• Strawberry Jam: A sweet and fruity spread that balances the richness of clotted cream perfectly.
• Honey: Drizzle some honey for a floral sweetness that pairs beautifully with the buttery scones.

Flavorful Additions

• Lemon Curd: The tartness of lemon curd provides a refreshing contrast to the scone’s sweetness.
• Nutella: For a chocolatey twist, spread Nutella on warm scones for a delightful treat.
• Fresh Berries: Serve with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for extra flavor and color.

Beverages to Accompany

• Earl Grey Tea: This fragrant tea enhances the British tea experience and complements the flavors of the scones.
• English Breakfast Tea: A classic choice that pairs well with any topping for a hearty afternoon pick-me-up.

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How to Perfect Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)

To achieve the best results when making Traditional English scones, follow these helpful tips that ensure tender, flaky treats every time.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold butter and buttermilk helps produce flaky layers in the scones.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently mix until just combined; overworking the dough can lead to tough scones.
• Chill Before Baking: Allowing your shaped dough to chill helps maintain its shape during baking.
• Check Your Oven Temperature: An accurate oven temperature is crucial for evenly baked scones. Use an oven thermometer if necessary.
• Use Quality Flour: Opt for high-quality all-purpose flour for better structure and taste in your scones.

Best Side Dishes for Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)

Traditional English scones shine when served alongside complementary dishes. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of scones.
2. Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheddar or creamy brie for a savory counterpart to sweet toppings.
3. Mini Quiches: These bite-sized treats offer a hearty option perfect for brunch gatherings alongside scones.
4. Savory Biscuits: Flaky savory biscuits provide variety and can be enjoyed with cheese spreads or butter.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that contrasts nicely with sweet scones.
6. Tea Sandwiches: Delicate sandwiches filled with cucumber, smoked salmon, or egg salad make excellent companions during tea time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe) can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common missteps to avoid.

• Ignoring the Butter Temperature: Using room temperature butter can lead to dense scones. Always ensure the butter is cold and cut into small pieces before mixing.
• Overmixing the Dough: Kneading too much can make your scones tough. Mix just until combined to keep them tender and flaky.
• Not Resting the Dough: Skipping the resting period allows gluten to develop too much. Resting for at least 30 minutes helps achieve a light texture.
• Using Wrong Measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Always use a kitchen scale for precise amounts, especially when following Royal recipes.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unpreheated oven affects the rise. Make sure your oven is fully heated to 400°F (205°C) before placing the scones inside.
• Skipping Egg Wash: Not applying an egg wash prevents that beautiful golden top. Brush with beaten egg for a lovely finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)

• Wrap each scone individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for the best quality.

Reheating Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe).

Can I use different types of flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends, but it may change the texture of your scones.

What can I serve with scones?

Traditional accompaniments include clotted cream and strawberry jam, but other jams or lemon curd work well too.

How do I know when my scones are done?

Look for a light golden color on top and check if they have risen nicely. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Can I add flavors or mix-ins?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or spices like cinnamon for added flavor.

How should I store leftover scones?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze them for long-term storage.

Final Thoughts

The Traditional English Scones (Official Buckingham Palace Recipe) offer not only a taste of royal tradition but also a chance to enjoy cozy tea time at home. Feel free to customize these scones by adding your favorite fruits or extracts to make them uniquely yours!